Chichen Itza, Mexico

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Chichen Itza is the largest ruined city of the Maya civilisation. It is located in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Due to its proximity to the resort of Cancun, it is one of the most visited Mayan sites, and Mexico's top tourist destination. Chichen Itza received Unesco recognition as a World Heritage Site in 1988.

What to see at Chichen Itza

The ruins to see in Chichen Itza are:

El Castillo or Pyramid of Kukulcan. This is the landmark of Chichen Itza. The name El Castillo means "The Castle". It is also called the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, for the sculptures of "feathered serpents" running down the sides of the northern staircase. During the spring and fall equinox, you can see the shadow descening the staircase, like a descending serpent. As of January 2006, visitors are no longer allowed to climb it.